Kingdom Travel Guide: The Dawn of K-Zombies that Swept Netflix & Joseon Dynasty Palace Tour
Released across 2019 and 2020, the Netflix original series Kingdom is a gripping mystery zombie thriller set against the historical backdrop of the Joseon Dynasty. Starring Ju Ji-hoon, Ryu Seung-ryong, and Bae Doona in the lead roles, this masterpiece triggered a massive, worldwide 'K-Zombie' craze immediately upon its release.
Furthermore, it sparked an explosive interest in traditional Korean clothing, famously causing the 'Gat' (the traditional Korean hat worn by characters in the show) to sell out on global e-commerce sites. By perfectly combining the gruesome zombie genre with the breathtaking visual aesthetics of Korean historical dramas and fierce political power struggles, it has rightfully earned critical acclaim from viewers all around the globe.
The Global Success of a Netflix Original: When 'Joseon Dynasty' Meets 'Zombies'
Kingdom managed to instantly captivate both die-hard fans of the zombie genre and foreigners completely unfamiliar with Korean historical dramas. Instead of a modern Western city, the show places a deadly plague and intense power struggles in the unfamiliar timeline of the 16th-century Joseon Dynasty.
Without guns or cars, the action sequences—where characters must fight against furious zombie hordes using only swords, bows, and sheer running speed—deliver unprecedented, extreme tension. The terrifying existence of zombies here is not just about simple monsters; they symbolize the cracks of a corrupt society and the tragedy of starving peasants, leaving a profound, lingering impact on the audience.
The Joseon Class System and the Suppressed Fight for Survival
The Joseon Dynasty was a strictly hierarchical society where a person's speech, manners, and attire immediately dictated their social class. Kingdom starkly exposes how easily this rigid status system turns into violence in the face of an existential crisis.
Foreign viewers might wonder, "Why doesn't that person speak up to their superior, even in a life-or-death situation?" Realizing that this is heavily bound by the rules of power and etiquette in traditional society makes the oppressive horror of the drama feel all the more realistic and suffocating.
A K-Historical Drama Tour Course for Travelers to Korea
Personally experience the magnificent Joseon architecture and the eerie yet beautiful nighttime ambiance seen in the drama right in the heart of Seoul.
A Night Stroll at Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces
If you want to feel the heavy atmosphere of the palaces where Kingdom's massive political conspiracies took place, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul. Especially if you participate in the 'Palace Night Viewing' programs held in spring and autumn, you can marvel at the mysterious and breathtaking beauty of traditional wooden structures glowing under soft, subtle lighting.
Experience Traditional Houses at the Korean Folk Village
Located in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, the Korean Folk Village is the actual filming location for numerous scenes in Kingdom. Everything is meticulously recreated, from the thatched-roof houses where commoners lived to the tile-roofed mansions of the nobility and the government offices. By renting and wearing a traditional 'Gat' or Hanbok (traditional Korean clothes) while walking around, you can take incredible photos that look like they were pulled straight out of a scene from the drama.
Bukchon Hanok Village and a Traditional Teatime Break
If you want to soak in the historical vibe within the city center, take a leisurely stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village in Jongno-gu, Seoul. After admiring the tiled roofs of traditional Hanoks lining the hilly streets, step into a nearby traditional teahouse. Tasting warm Korean tea and Yakgwa (traditional honey pastry) will allow you to peacefully soothe the fatigue of your travels.
Travel Precautions
The Palace Night Viewing and the Changdeokgung Secret Garden tours are incredibly popular even among locals in Korea, making online advance reservations absolutely essential. Before visiting, you must check the official websites for foreigner-exclusive booking methods or the availability of on-site ticket sales.
Additionally, the grounds of the Hanok Village and the ancient palaces consist mostly of dirt paths or are paved with uneven stones. To comfortably enjoy the beautiful scenery, it is essential to wear comfortable walking sneakers rather than high heels.
Key Summary
- Released in 2019, this Netflix original historical thriller sparked the global K-Zombie syndrome and the 'Gat' craze.
- It brilliantly showcases an overwhelming narrative and visual beauty by combining the tragedy of corrupt power and starving commoners with the theme of zombies.
- Book a night viewing ticket for Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul to take a stroll and soak in the mysterious, tranquil night atmosphere of the royal palaces.
- We highly recommend visiting the Korean Folk Village in Yongin—an actual filming location—to rent a Hanbok and Gat and walk the streets of the Joseon era.
- Before visiting the ancient palaces, it is best to check the official website for closed days and prepare comfortable walking shoes.
▶ Check 'Kingdom' info on Wikipedia
▶ Visit Korea Official Travel Guide